Trevor Lai is an award-winning author, illustrator and entrepreneur who has published more than 15 books for readers of all ages. He is also the founder and CEO of UP Studios, which is dedicated to creating, developing and producing content and merchandise based on original properties for kids and families.

The Power of Imagination

by Trevor Lai

When I was a kid, I really wanted to be a magician. The power to create highly imaginative illusions and convince your audience that anything is possible was very inspiring. As a young ESL student, some days I wished that I could cast a spell on myself and *poof* instantly be able to share all the stories I had inside me.

Thanks to my parents - who read stories to me every night and shepherded me on countless library visits - I was eventually able to achieve my dream by using a different kind of magic. Instead of pulling rabbits out of hats, I created a rhino named Ralphy and brought him to life in everyghing from books to the world's first round library card, and even the Olympics.

I've had the privilege to inspire young reader from Canada to China to believe that anything is possible when you dream and work hard enough. With every story, drawing, scool visit and project I undertake, I try to infuse it with the same wonder and inspiration you feel when you see a magician perform. We all have a little magic inside of us. I call it something else: The Power of Imagination.

Trevor Lai is an award-winning author, illustrator and entrepreneur who has been invited to present at more than 1,000 schools and events since publishing his first book at the age of 17. Sharing his inspirational story and expertise with audiences ranging from elementary students through to professional writing groups and international business executives, Trevor's tailored presentations offer a unique combination of his experiences as a former branding executive, animated film director, creator and entrepreneur. To book Trevor for speaking engagements, please email trevor@upstudios.cn